GLP-1 Coverage Becomes Key in Job Retention in the US

As demand for GLP-1 weight loss medications such as Ozempic, Wegovy, and Zepbound continues to rise, access to these treatments is increasingly influencing employment decisions. A new survey by 9amHealth reveals that US employer-sponsored coverage for GLP-1s has more than doubled in the past year, reaching 63%, while 31% of employees would consider changing jobs to gain access to these medications.

The survey, conducted in December 2024, found that 54% of people in the United States either use or want to use GLP-1 medication, reflecting a 6% increase from the previous year. Additionally, 73% of employees now cite GLP-1 coverage as a critical factor in job retention or acceptance, up from 67% in 2023. Despite increased coverage, affordability remains a challenge, with 25% of employees wanting access but unable to afford it.

Financial constraints are also shaping consumer behavior. Among those whose employers do not provide GLP-1 coverage, 59% reported cutting back on discretionary spending, up from 30% last year. Categories most affected include dining out, luxury purchases, and groceries.

The survey results highlight the growing influence of GLP-1 medications on workplace benefits and employment choices. As demand continues to rise, employers and health plans will need to adapt their strategies to ensure sustainable and effective coverage for these treatments.

Some of the GLP-1 agonist medications currently available include Dulaglutide (Trulicity), Liraglutide (Victoza), Semaglutide tablets (Rybelsus), and Semaglutide injection (Ozempic), as reported by Cleveland Clinic.  One of the leaders of the market is Ozempic, which is primarily prescribed for diabetes treatment. However, its popularity has surged as a weight-loss drug. Although it is legal for doctors to prescribe it for off-label use, this rising demand has led to shortages, making it more difficult for people with diabetes to access the medication.

Google Trends data shows that in Mexico, searches for Ozempic have steadily increased since 2022, reaching their highest point in March 2023, reports UNAM. This peak came a month after reports of shortages in various parts of the country and the United States, according to the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA). This shortage has created a market for counterfeit drugs. Fake Ozempic pens, often falsely labeled with legitimate batch numbers, have been found in over 10 countries, as reported by MBN.